Guests say
Gowanlea is a well-received cottage in Northumberland, praised for its beautiful location and homely feel. Guests appreciate the proximity to scenic walks and Kielder Water, as well as the local pub's hospitality. The property offers a peaceful retreat with comfortable furnishings and a well-equipped kitchen, making it a favourite for those seeking tranquillity and outdoor activities.
Most guests found the cottage clean and well-maintained, though some noted areas needing attention, such as the shower curtain and kitchen cleanliness. These were isolated comments amidst generally positive feedback on the property's tidiness.
The location is highly praised for its tranquillity, proximity to Kielder Water and Forest, and local amenities like the pub and tea room. The village's remoteness and dark skies are considered assets, contributing to the property's charm.
Guests report a high level of comfort, with special mentions of the quality bedding and spacious living areas. Some suggested improvements for seating and additional lighting, but overall, the cottage is seen as a cosy and welcoming space.
The property is well-furnished with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable seating. However, some guests reported non-functioning extractor fans and issues with the French doors. Maintenance appears to be responsive, with the owner addressing concerns promptly.
While guests have mentioned the lack of a welcome pack, there is no consistent reference to gifts or additional thoughtful touches provided by the hosts. Therefore, it is not possible to accurately assess the thoughtfulness category.
About this property
Tucked away in the village of Falstone, within paces of the local pub, and some two miles from the Keilder Forest and Nature Reserve on the England-Scotland border, is Gowanlea. This charming, double-fronted cottage welcomes you to share a memorable holiday in an enviable location, with plenty of walking, cycling and fishing in the area. It is well-suited to families, friends or a couple seeking a tranquil corner to relax, with the great outdoors right on the doorstep. Return from one of your adventures and make yourselves cosy and snug in the spacious living room, with the multi-fuel stove taking the chill away from a cold winter's night.
You can watch your favourite shows on the Smart TV or have late nights discussing your plans for the week. The kitchen is well-equipped for cooking up homemade meals and getting together around the dining table in the living room. You have two bedrooms completing the ground floor, a master king-size double with its very own en-suite, and a twin room followed by the family bathroom. There is also a telescope in the master bedroom, perfect for gazing up at the star-filled skies on a clear night. The enclosed garden, access via French doors, enjoys lovely views and a calming ambience, being situated next door to the church, and is perfect for picnics on the lawn or a drink on the patio.
As well as the local pub, there is a lovely tea room in the village, while the award-wining Keilder Observatory, a magical and unique experience, rests just the other side of Keilder Water. Boasting some of the darkest skies in the world, this remarkable site will leave you feeling inspired as you drive through spectacular countryside and along the forest roads, which plays host to over 50% of the entire red squirrel population in the UK. The Keilder Reservoir is the ideal spot to recharge and refresh, where you can have a coffee and spot of lunch in the café or restaurant, and even try out some of the watersports on offer.
Falstone is around 24 miles north of Hexham, a thriving market town dominated by its ancient abbey. Enjoy a truly memorable experience here at Gowanlea.
Falstone lies on the fringes of Kielder Forest, offering some of the best ‘dark skies’ in England. There are many signed walking paths through the forest, and cycle tracks with different routes to suit a variety of abilities, plus fishing and an abundance of wildlife in the area. Hadrian's Wall is an easy drive away and the National Trust properties, including Wallington Hall and Cragside are also within reach.
Accommodation
All ground-floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x super king-size double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin.
Bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin, bidet and WC.
Kitchen.
Living/dining room with multi-fuel stove.
Electric heating with multi-fuel stove.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washer/dryer, TV with Freeview, WiFi.
Power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking for two cars.
Enclosed garden with patio and lawned area.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 9 miles, pub 0.1 miles.
Please note: no fuel for the multi-fuel stove is provided
Reviews (60)
-
Chris
A standard lock would be a great improvement. Otherwise lovely
-
Kirsty
Great walks from the door, lovely friendly neighbours. Everything you could need for your stay. The bed was really comfy. Looking forward to our stay in June.
-
Alexander
Good quality, comfortable furnishings for the price. Kitchen has everything needed, again a good standard of fixings and appliances. Bathroom appliances, fixings and decor could do with some upgrading, but more than adequate and satisfactory. However, we arrived to a cold house ( this was not unexpected ) and although we managed after a short period of time to work the heating system, someone with less familiarity and experience in using these systems could of struggled for far longer with the overcomplicated programs and functions. The ensuite bedroom bed was covered in long black animal hairs, all over the sheet and under the duvet. We attempted to change the sheet ourselves. The spare sheets stored within the bed draws were stained with blood. Disgusting as I'm sure you would agree. Note we have taken pictures of the above as proof. A long red hair was found in the bathroom off the hall. Thank you.